Trainee Train Assistant – Transnet Freight Rail

Trainee Train Assistant

Operating Division: Transnet Freight Rail
Employee Group: Trainee
Department: OP-COR-OEXEC-TCM Panel 6-BFU
Location: Beaufort West
Reporting To: Section Manager: Train Traffic
Grade: SSTFT
Reference: req2758
Closing Date: 19/03/2025

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that HR has received the application before the closing date.

Position Purpose

Assist the Train Driver in the safe and efficient operation of various types of trains/locomotives, including airbrake, vacuum, high-speed, heavy haul, and passenger trains. Ensure timely and secure cargo delivery to meet customer requirements.

Position Outputs

Duty Preparation

• Sign on duty at the designated workplace and receive assigned duties.
• Identify the locomotive for preparation.
• Obtain and place required equipment on the locomotive.
• Inspect and supplement prescribed equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness of the working area.
• Assist in starting the locomotive as per instructions.
• Conduct brake tests.
• Couple the locomotive.
• Dispatch the locomotive.

Locomotive Preparation

• Identify and prepare the locomotive.
• Obtain and place necessary equipment.
• Inspect and supplement required equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness of the workspace.
• Assist in starting the locomotive.
• Conduct brake tests.

Communication Equipment Preparation

• Obtain and verify radios, handsets, walkie-talkies, or telemeters as required.
• Ensure functionality of communication equipment.

Pre-Trip Train Preparation

• Attach/detach vehicles as per work orders in the absence of guard personnel.
  • Mount telemeters where required.
  • Complete vehicle list and vacuum form.
  • Mount train indicators.
  • Inspect the train.
  • Conduct brake tests with the Train Driver.

Shunting and Train Movement

• Obtain and follow the work order.
• Perform shunting, placing, and removing trucks.
• Update vehicle list.
• Load and clear trucks at sidings.

Enroute Assistance

• Verbally confirm signal positions and displays with the Train Driver.
• Observe preceding trains and patrol locomotives.
• Reset locomotive trip-outs.
• Monitor train operation for safety.
• Provide protection during incidents.
• Assist the Train Driver during emergencies.

Compliance & Administration

• Adhere to safety standards and prescribed instructions.
• Provide timely and accurate feedback to the Train Driver.
• Assist with administrative duties.
• Complete and submit the Train Journal to the Section Manager at sign-off for accurate payroll processing.

Qualifications and Experience

Educational Requirements:

• Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science.

Other Requirements:

• Undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioral risk assessments during selection and every 12 months.
• Maintain physical, hearing, vision, and mental fitness (verified through medical tests and safety behavioral risk assessments).
• Train drivers or train control duties are restricted to employees 21 years and older (SANS 3000, par 6.2.6.8).
• Minimum height requirement: 1.6m.
• Psychomotor ability assessment through the Vienna Testing System (VTS standards).
• Capability to carry heavy objects.

Functional Training:

• Successfully complete Train Assistant training (theoretical and practical) for independent certification.
• Obtain a Train Assistant duties certificate.

Competencies

Knowledge

• Various communication systems.
• Depot layout and locomotive classes.
• Locomotive equipment and hauling capacities.
• Routes, sections, stations, and sidings.
• Train working rules and procedures.
• Signing on duty procedures.
• Trip reporting.
• Yard and siding layout.
• General TFR policies.
• Health and Safety Act 85.
• First Aid and BCEA (Basic Conditions of Employment Act).
• SANS 3004 (Human Factors).
• HC policies and procedures.
• Substance Abuse policy and procedures.

Skills

• Locomotive coupling and uncoupling.
• Locomotive preparations (Electrical and Diesel).
• Observation and shunting movement.
• Train handling and problem-solving.
• Time and stress management.
• Assessment and literacy.
• Communication, judgment, and reasoning.
• Psychomotor skills (reaction/coordination).
• Concentration and observation.
• Spatial and depth perception.
• Numerical ability.
• Electrical and diesel locomotive driving.

Equity Statement

Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of designated groups, in line with the Employment Equity Plan and targets of the organization/operating division.

Apply using the links below

Beaufort West